2 minute read
The Creole Nature Trail All-American Road Caters to Five Types of Road Trippers,
Often referred to as Louisiana’s Outback, the Creole Nature Trail All-American Road is a delectable travel treat for road trippers and day trippers seeking the ultimate outdoor experience in the state. You’ll see everything from sunbathing alligators and flocks of migratory birds to Louisiana blue crabs and fish year-round. This 180-mile trail stretches along the Gulf of Mexico, where you’ll take in the most vibrant sunsets resting above the marshlands and seashells lining the beaches.
Types of Road Trippers: | DESIGNATED DRIVER
You’re probably the most mature person in your group and a little bit of a control freak, but that’s okay because you’re prepared for the trip!
Know Before You Go:
Resources are scarce. There are few gas stations, eateries, and spotty cell reception along this journey. Plan accordingly.
Packing List:
• Sunglasses
• Bottled Water
• Brochures
Where to Stop:
Creole Nature Trail Adventure Point & Pintail Wildlife Drive – Sometimes drivers can’t take in the full road trip experience because their attention is on the road, but here you can see sunbathing alligators lining the road.
Foodie
If you’re a gastronomic road tripper or just the “hangry” friend of the group, listen up. Your counterparts will probably rely on you to secure the food spots, and you won’t let them down with our delectable backroad bites.
Know Before You Go:
Gas stations are some of the best eateries in Louisiana. It’s equivalent to stepping into a Cajun/Creole’s kitchen.
Packing List:
• Heartburn Medicine
• Stretchy Pants
• Road Trip Snacks
Where to Stop:
Prioritize these three hole-in-the- wall joints: Anchors Up Grill, Brown’s Grocery, and Chesson’s Grocery for an authentic taste of Louisiana.
THRILL-SEEKER
If you’re road-tripping this trail during the summer months, you’ll find more thrills than you bargained for. Instead of watching wildlife from the comfort of your car, you can get up close and personal with nature’s bounty like crabs, alligators, nutria, fish, birds, and more.
Know Before You Go: Crabbing at recreation areas is a popular outdoor activity for locals, but you do need a hook and line fishing license to do it legally, but the good thing is, it's $5 and can be purchased at most sporting stores or online.
Packing List:
• Sunscreen
• Insect Repellent
• First-Aid Kit
Where to Stop: Brown’s Food Center & Blue Crab Recreation in Hackberry, Louisiana. Only 10 minutes apart, you can purchase your crabbing equipment at Brown’s and get your crabbing experience at the recreation center.
Influencer
There are aesthetic opportunities lurking around every corner of the Creole Nature Trail. For influencers that are seeking picturesque content for their social media channels, you’re in luck!
Know Before You Go:
To ensure the survival of native wildlife species and their habitats, a significant portion of this route is maintained, restored, and enhanced through the National Wildlife System. At these locations, you’ll take photos of iconic scenery, but also take a moment to unplug and appreciate nature’s gifts.
Packing List:
• Waterproof Phone Case
• Portable Cell Phone Charger
• Fanny Pack or Small Backpack
Where to Stop:
Book a tour with Grosse Savanne to score the best of both worlds. This boat tour allows you to stay connected with your social media followers through engaging content and reconnect with nature as you learn about the area’s sustainability efforts through the tour guide.
| PET PASSENGER
When the winds are grazing your whiskers and you can roam across a string of rural beaches, it’s a good day on the road for you. You love the scent in the air, surrounding sounds, and discovering new sites.
Know Before You Go:
Your paws can handle a barefoot trek at local beaches but remind your human to wear comfortable shoes when guiding you by leash.
Packing List:
• Dog Food & Water
• Poop Bags
• Beach Towel
Where to Stop:
Holly & Rutherford Beaches are the perfect beaches for the entire family to soak up the sun, collect seashells, birdwatch, and unwind to the soothing sounds of the waves. Don’t leave without catching a sunset.